The blackout in Sudan caused a severe chokehold on the flow of crucial information. The stifling absence of communication channels obstructs the dissemination of vital updates, hindering the ability of both local and international entities to comprehend the depth and dynamics of the crisis. This information blackout not only obstructs the coordination of essential services, medical assistance, and humanitarian aid but also creates a breeding ground for misinformation and speculation. The scarcity of accurate, real-time information not only challenges the immediate response efforts, but also compounds the difficulty of mapping out a comprehensive strategy to address the multifaceted challenges faced by the Sudanese population.
Sarra Elhassan, a Sudanese content creator, explains how dire the situation is with the on-going blackout in Sudan on X (formerly known as Twitter). In her quick update for 23rd of Febuary, she claims that clashes are persisting in Khartoum, claiming civilian lives, while videos reveal RSF attacks in West Darfur’s Mukjar, part of an ethnic cleansing campaign causing massive displacement. In Jezira State, Tanoub village suffered casualties. The blackout exacerbates the hunger crisis, impacting 90% of Sudanese. E-banking disruption hampers access to necessities, leading to the shutdown of communal kitchens in conflict zones. The blackout’s ripple effects extend beyond communication disruptions, shaping a multidimensional crisis.
(February 24, 2024)
Hissa Al Thani’s Twitter